(a) An individual or entity shall not operate a transportation network company in this state without first having obtained a permit to operate a transportation network company from the Arkansas Public Service Commission.
(b) The commission shall:
(1) Issue forms for a transportation network company to demonstrate that it meets all requirements of this subchapter to obtain a permit; and
(2) Issue a transportation network company permit to an applicant that:
(A) Meets all qualifications of this subchapter; and
(B) Pays an annual permit fee of fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) to the commission.